1 (0.6 oz.) pkg. Zesty Italian salad dressing mix
1 (12 oz.) jar whole mild banana peppers, drained
2 c. (8 oz.) shredded Mozzarella cheese, divided
1 med. cucumber, thinly sliced
1 (6 z.) can pitted ripe olives, drained
1 pt. cherry tomatoes, halved
2 med. size green peppers, coarsely chopped
1 bunch Romaine lettuce, torn into bite size pieces
2 carrots, coarsely grated
1 (3 1/2 oz.) pkg. sliced pepperoni
1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan cheese (opt.)

Prepare salad dressing mix according to package directions; set aside.

Reserve 3 banana peppers and 1/4 cup Mozzarella cheese for garnish. Layer cucumber, olives, tomatoes, green pepper and remaining banana peppers in a 4 quart bowl; pour 1/2 cup dressing over vegetables. Top with layers of lettuce, carrots, 1 3/4 cup Mozzarella and pepperoni; cover and chill 2 to 6 hours. Garnish with reserved Mozzarella cheese and banana peppers. Toss salad just before serving. If desired, serve with Parmesan cheese and remaining salad dressing. 8 to 10 servings.